1-First Step: Warm the peach preserves Start by placing 12 oz peach preserves or jam into a small saucepan. Warm it over low heat for about 3 minutes. Stir gently as it heats so the preserves become smooth and loose. You do not want to boil it, since low heat is enough to soften the jam and help it mix into the tea later.

2-Second Step: Stir in the fresh thyme Once the preserves are loose, stir in 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme. Mix until the thyme is well distributed through the warm peach mixture. Fresh thyme gives the drink a clean herbal note that balances the sweetness of the tea and fruit.

3-Third Step: Combine with sweet tea Pour 1 gallon sweet tea into a large pitcher. Then stir in the warm peach and thyme mixture. Mix well so the preserves spread through the tea as evenly as possible. The color should look lightly golden and peachy once everything is combined.

4-Fourth Step: Chill the tea Cover the pitcher and refrigerate for up to 48 hours. This resting time helps the peach and thyme flavors blend into the sweet tea. Even a short chill will make the drink refreshing, but a longer rest gives it a deeper flavor.

5-Final Step: Serve over ice and garnish Right before serving, add ice to the pitcher. This keeps the tea cold without watering it down too early. Pour into glasses and garnish with thyme sprigs and sliced peaches if desired. You can also add 1 to 2 peach slices per glass for a pretty finish.